Part 7/15:
Perhaps more controversially, Modi’s rhetoric during the campaign often veered into communal overtones. He directly targeted Muslim communities, insinuating that their population growth was a threat and implying preferential treatment in welfare schemes. Statements about Muslims having "more children" and references to customs like Mangal Sutra (a sacred marriage ornament) revived fears of religious divisiveness. Critics viewed these comments as electoral baiting, while supporters saw them as asserting cultural pride.